Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty is surgical modification of the eyelid. Excess tissue such as skin and fat are removed or repositioned, and surrounding muscles and tendons may be reinforced. It can be both a functional and cosmetic surgery.

As aging occurs, skin all over the body begins to stretch, droop, sag, or otherwise change. The eyelids and surrounding skin are no exceptions and are especially subjective to these harsh signs of aging. The loss of elasticity and misplaced fat deposits can cause the look of perpetual tiredness, false illness, general unhappiness, and premature aging, and the lid's sagging tendencies can interfere with superior and peripheral vision. Ptosis correction and blepharoplasty are used to correct these conditions. The surgeries can be done separately or simultaneously, and a doctor will be able to determine the specific needs of each individual client, and depending on the purpose and combination of the operations, insurance policies may or may not cover or partly cover the surgeries and associated appointments, follow-ups and consultations.

Ptosis, or drooping of the upper eyelid known as blepharotosis, can occur in one or both eyes; it can also interfere with vision. The corrective surgery seeks to elevate the position of the lid without the removal of skin and fat. It is more of a "lift." This can be done as a cosmetic surgery for patients simply seeking a younger look, but if the sagging interferes with vision, it can be considered a medical necessity, and insurance policies are likely to cover the operation. Symptoms that indicate that vision is being impair include constant raising of eyebrows, tilting of the head in order to read either intravenous sedation or general anesthetic will be administered, and condition can be corrected via a crease incision. Ptosis correcting is a different procedure than blepharoplasty.

Caused by a condition known as dermatochalsis or pseudo-ptosis, blepharoplasty attempts both to remove the excess upper eyelid skin and also to reduce fat pockets. This procedure, as well as the previously discussed ptosis correction, is attempted via an incision which is designed to conceal scarring. The natural shape and function of the crease is helpful in hiding the minor marks and scars induced by the operation.

Procedures on the eyes are very detailed and delicate, and choosing a surgeon is an important part of the process. Those specializing in both cosmetic and corrective eyelid surgeries are surely the most qualified for patients undergoing the two operations simultaneously as well as when or if the procedure can or will affect vision. An ophthalmic plastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist who has additional training in cosmetic surgery for the eyes, and since an ophthalmologist can provide care for the eye that may be needed following, seeking a medical professional with the combination of certifications makes sense.

What must I do before undergoing the surgery?

There must be a person waiting with you at the night/day of the treatment and to leave you home post the treatment.

No strenuous work for five to six days post the surgery so that the eyelids are allowed to heal.